World Cup 2026: Pep Guardiola explains Lamine Yamal’s slow start ahead of Spain’s Portugal showdown

Lamine Yamal may have scored just once for Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but legendary manager Pep Guardiola believes the teenager’s modest goal return is largely down to fitness rather than form.

The 18-year-old arrived in the United States as one of the tournament’s biggest attractions after another outstanding season with Barcelona. However, injuries in the build-up to the World Cup have limited his impact, with Yamal managing only one goal despite producing several influential performances.

Guardiola believes the winger is still working his way back to full sharpness.

“Lamine is a bit behind physically due to his injuries.

“However, given his age, he has an incredible ability to handle pressure and can turn a match around on his own,” Guardiola said.

The former Barcelona and Manchester City boss also outlined what he believes will be Spain’s blueprint for overcoming Portugal in their eagerly anticipated Round of 16 clash.

According to Guardiola, the key lies in midfield control, with Rodri and Pedri tasked with dictating the tempo and creating the platform for Yamal to influence the contest in the final third.

“If Rodri can set the tempo in midfield alongside Pedri, these two players, together with Lamine Yamal, have everything it takes to make the difference,” Guardiola added.

Spain head into the Iberian derby brimming with confidence after a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32. Luis de la Fuente’s side produced arguably their most complete display of the tournament, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring twice and Pedro Porro adding the third to seal a comfortable passage into the last 16.

Although Yamal did not get on the scoresheet against Austria, the Barcelona star was one of Spain’s standout performers. His pace, creativity and dribbling constantly stretched the Austrian defence, helping La Roja dominate possession while preventing their opponents from registering a single shot on target. The display reinforced Spain’s growing reputation as one of the favourites to lift the trophy despite an inconsistent group-stage campaign.

Yamal has gradually looked sharper with every appearance after returning from injury, and Spain will hope the teenage sensation reaches peak form against Portugal. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the Portuguese challenge and Rodri, Pedri and Yamal expected to spearhead Spain’s attack, the Round of 16 clash promises to be one of the marquee fixtures of the 2026 World Cup.